By Kukiland Express Desk
Songpi: April 19, 2026
The investigation into Saturday’s ambush at TM Kasom village in Ukhrul district will be handed over to the National Investigation Agency, the Manipur government said, citing the need for “transparency and accountability”. Three members of the Tangkhul Kacha-Naga community were killed in the firing around 2:30 PM, which officials alleged was carried out by armed Kuki militants.
While early reports listed two deaths, officials confirmed late Saturday that a third person had succumbed, raising the toll to three. Two bodies have been kept at Ukhrul District Hospital mortuary for post-mortem. Authorities have not yet released details of the third victim.
Former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh condemned the killings as “barbaric” in a Facebook post. “I strongly condemn the killing of innocent civilians in an attack by militants at TM Kasom village in Ukhrul district around 2:30 pm today,” he wrote. He said the state decided to transfer the case to the NIA to ensure an impartial probe.
Singh announced ex-gratia for families of two identified victims — Chinaoshang Shokwungnao, a retired Naga Regiment personnel from Tashar village, and Yaruingam Vashum, 43, of Kharasom CV village. The third deceased was not named. “Security forces have launched an operation to apprehend those responsible. I offer my condolences to the bereaved families,” he stated. In a separate post on X, he said he was “deeply disturbed” and called for a “decisive and coordinated crackdown”, stressing that protecting civilians must remain central.
The NIA transfer signals the government views the ambush as having wider security implications. Security deployments have been increased in Ukhrul district after the incident. Tensions remain high in the area, with officials appealing for calm as the probe begins. No group has claimed responsibility so far.
Edited By: Nengcha Haokip
Copyright ©2026 Kukiland Express – All Rights Reserved.
